Grant Writing

Government agencies, private foundations, and nonprofit organizations offer a host of grant programs designed to support businesses. As a small business it is difficult to keep abreast of funding opportunities. Further, it is even more difficult to prepare the rigorous documentation required for these highly competitive programs. CDS has an excellent track record facilitating grant processes for clients that have delivered many successful awards. In the past 10 years we have delivered successful grants ranging from $5,000 to $200,000. In total, we have helped clients access over $8 million in federal, state and foundation grants.

CDS is especially adept at understanding federal USDA grants, although we have successfully delivered other funding sources as well. One of our core service grants is the USDA’s Value Added Producer Grant (VAPG) program. The VAPG program is designed to provide grant funds to agricultural producers for Business Planning activities and Working Capital expenses. We have delivered grants ranging from $20,000 to $300,000.

Testimonials

"With CDS' help, we were able to channel $1.5M of social investment to young organic farmers in our region. Most importantly, these services were provided to us at a price we could actually afford as a start-up."

- Robert Karp, President, New Spirit Ventures, LLC

CDS is a nonprofit organization created and governed by the cooperative community of the Upper Midwest.